Short Stories

ELA 1

Name:

Elements of Fiction

Instructions: Record definitions for each of the terms listed below. We will discuss each of these elements throughout our short story unit so it is important that you include a definition that makes sense to you.

fiction:

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plot:

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exposition:

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rising action:

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climax:

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falling action:

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resolution (dénouement): ______

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theme:

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setting:

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characters:

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protagonist:

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antagonist:

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conflict:

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internal conflict:

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external conflict:

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four types of conflict:

1. ______2. ______3. ______4. ______

point of view:

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  • first person limited: ______

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  • third person limited: _______

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  • third person omniscient: _______

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mood:

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symbolism:

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foreshadowing:

______

Irony

The contrast between what the reader or audience expects and the reality of the situation. Appearance is deceiving when a reader encounters irony.

Types of Literary Irony

1. Verbal Irony: The simplest form of irony. Occurs when a person says something but means the opposite.
  • Sarcasm: A type of verbal irony intended to be cruel and hurtful
  • Pun: A play on words—Getting a kick out of playing soccer.
Example: Parent looks over child’s report card filled with D’s and F’s and says, “Nice to see that you’re taking your grades seriously.”
2. Situational Irony: The contrast between what the reader expects to happen in the story and what is actually happening.
Example: A pirate ship encounters many hardships while looking for treasure. When the treasure is found; it is full of notes warning you not to be greedy.
3. Dramatic Irony: The contrast between what the character in the story knows or wants and what the reader or audience already knows.
Example: A surprise party.

Characterization

The author’s ability to create and develop characters in the novel; presented in such a way that the characters exist for the reader’s imagination within context of the story.

Four Methods of Characterization

1. Physical Appearance: The author describes the physical features and manners of a character. From these details we can often guess what the character’s personality is like.

2. Speech and Thought: A character reveals something about their nature through the things that they say or by the thoughts that they have. Feelings and emotions may be included in this.

3. Direct Action: Actions tend to speak louder than words. A character’s actions in a story reveals details about who they are.

4. Narrator Comments: When the author uses this technique of characterization, the narrator directly states a character’s physical, personal, emotional, etc… traits. Example: “her face was as ugly as her heart was hard.”

Degree of Character Development

1. Simple (flat): A character with only a few qualities that represents a particular attitude or idea

2. Complex (round): A character who is realist because she possesses a complete personality

Journal for “A Retrieved Reformation” by O. Henry

Do you believe that a person who has demonstrated criminal behavior in the past can change permanently? If yes, what influences could be responsible for that change? If not, explain why.

______

What does the title mean? What comes to mind when you think of the following words?

Retrieved =>

Reformed =>

Who or what is

usually reformed?

Predict what the combination “A Retrieved Reformation” might mean in this story:

Questions for “A Retrieved Reformation” by O. Henry

  1. As the story closes, what feelings do you have about Jimmy’s future?
  1. Based on what you know about Jimmy, what do you think he will do next?
  1. What is your opinion of Ben Price’s decision to let Jimmy go? Is his decision wise or unwise? Explain.
  1. How would you describe the character of Jimmy Valentine?
  1. In your opinion, is the reformation of Jimmy Valentine believable? Why or why not?
  1. Like Jimmy, many prisoners are released from prison before their sentences are up. How do you feel about prisoners’ serving shortened sentences? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this situation.

______

Journal for “Button, Button” by Richard Matheson

Temptation is defined as something that entices one to give in to their desires and pleasures.

Temptation is all around us. List five things that you are tempted by:

1. ______

2. ______

3. ______

4. ______

5. ______

Reflect and write about a time that you gave in or overcame temptation:

______

Vocabulary for “Button, Button” by Richard Matheson

Word / Know it well, can explain it, use it / Know something about it / Have seen or heard the word / Do not know the word
  1. Intrigue

  1. Eccentric

  1. Immoral

  1. Offensive

  1. Pitch

  1. Scoff

  1. Proposition

  1. Monetarily

  1. Furor

After self-assessing your understanding of the above words, please fill in their definitions, including part of speech:

  1. Intrigue:

  1. Eccentric:

  1. Immoral:

  1. Offensive:

  1. Pitch:

  1. Scoff:

  1. Proposition:

  1. Monetarily:

  1. Furor:

“Button, Button” Questions:

  1. Norma may be viewed as a very shallow character. What theme is the author trying to expose or uncover through Norma’s character?
  1. What is a symbol? Describe what Mr. Steward may be symbolic of.
  1. Provide one example of foreshadowing found in this story.
  1. How would you describe Norma and Arthur’s relationship?
  1. At first, Norma and Arthur are appalled by the proposal. How does Norma explain her sudden interest in the box to her husband?
  1. How does Arthur die?
  1. How will Norma receive the cash?
  1. What are Norma’s personality traits that lead her to push the button?

Journal for “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

What do you think of when you hear the word lottery?

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______

______

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Describe at least three ways your life would change if you or someone in your family won the lottery?

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Vocabulary for “The Lottery”

Synonyms (at least 2): / Antonyms (at least 2): / Symbol or picture
  1. Boisterous

  1. Profusely

  1. Reluctantly

  1. Jovial

  1. Paraphernalia

  1. Disengage

  1. Precisely

  1. Daintily

  1. Ritual

“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

  1. What is the tone at the beginning of the story? What about the mood? Use support from the text in your reponse.
  1. How is the lottery different from what it used to be?
  1. Describe exactly how the lottery is conducted.
  1. How is the choice of the lottery foreshadowed?
  1. Who is Old Man Warner? What attitude does he represent?

Old Man Warner says, “Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon.” What do you think he meant by this?

  1. Why does this town conduct the lottery?
  1. Who is Davy Hutchinson? Does he represent more than just a child?
  1. What does Mrs. Delacroix’s extra large stone say about loyalty and logic in “The Lottery?”
  1. How does Shirley Jackson’s choice to withhold the ultimate purpose of this tradition until the end of the story prove to be an effective way to communicate with her readers?
  1. This story is a cautionary tale. What is the theme/message of the story?

Literature Circle: “The Lottery”

What is a Literature Circle?

Literature Circles provide you with an opportunity to reflect upon what you have read, as well as to contribute to the overall meaning of the text. Furthermore, the literature circle encourages you to narrow your focus, as each group member is responsible for one specific role.

Literature Circles afford each group member the occasion to “try out a new role,” i.e. one session you might fulfill the role of summarizer, whereas at another session you would assume the title of motif hunter, etc. Groups will continue to cycle through the roles indicated below until each has moved full “circle.”

Literature Circle Roles and Descriptions:

Summarizer- As the summarizer, it is your job to identify and subsequently recount the major events that take place within the designated chapter(s). You’ll want to be certain to lend specific detail and elaboration where necessary. Please record at least one significant direct quote.

Motif Hunter - As the motif hunter, you are responsible for identifying any motif(s) within the designated chapter(s). You are to explain how the motif (recurring image, theme or subject) is demonstrated and/or supported.

Character Sketch/Analysis - Provide a description of any new character(s) introduced within the assigned chapter(s). Consider the following items when classifying each character: physical description, personality traits, relation to other characters, role within the story, noticeable change/evolution and any memorable event in which the character is involved. If no new character is introduced, focus on a character not previously highlighted. Special attention should be paid to character development (change over time).

Artist - As the artist, you are responsible for bringing to life some aspect of the chapter(s). You are to determine the means of expression (i.e. drawing, painting, collage, poster, poem, song) by which to creatively portray a memorable scene from the novel.

Connector / Commentator – As the connector / commentator, it is your job to draw a comparison between what is happening in the book and something outside the text. This connection may be to a current or historical event, another story you have read, or movie/TV show you have seen. In addition, you might personally connect with a scene and/or character, in which case you can describe how you are like that specific character (i.e. endured a similar hardship, etc.).

Finally, make an evaluative comment on the plot, character(s), motif(s), or theme(s). Other group members should follow.

The Lottery: group talk

Instructions: Today with your group members, you will talk about the topics listed below. These questions are open-ended and are meant to engage your group in some deep discussion. Please jot down some notes before meeting with your groups so that you are prepared to contribute to the conversation.

Topic #1: Choices

In the short story “The Lottery” we see a town of people who make a choice to follow a tradition rather than to question their society. Do you feel that they are making the right choice? Why or why not? What would you personally do in this situation?

Topic #2: Real Connections

Think about what happened in this story. Do things like this ever happen in real life? Do we ever sit back and allow something bad to happen because other people are doing it? Does this story remind you of anything that happened in history?* (*Hint: a society using scapegoats/killing innocent people without just cause?)

Topic #3: Changing Tradition

What would happen if one person tried to change a tradition like this? How difficult/easy is it to do? What consequences could arise?

“THE LOTTERY” by Shirley jackson

Writing Assignment

OBJECTIVE:In your response journal, you will compose a piece of writing which both exhibits an understanding of the story we read in class as well as the concept of mood and point of view.

DIRECTIONS: After reading the story “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson, respond to ONE of the following prompts. Your response should be at least two paragraphs and reference details from the text.

Option One:

Months after the annual lottery, there is some unrest in the town; many of the young people are questioning the need for such a custom. Acting as the mayor, write a formal letter to the townspeople explaining the need for this tradition and your supporting logic.

Option Two:

You are the pastor of the community church. After a great deal of consideration and prayer, you have decided that you are morally opposed to the lottery. This coming Sunday you plan to address your congregation in the hopes of persuading them to join you in your crusade to stop this barbaric custom. Craft your sermon and explain why they must join you.

Option Three:

Several months have passed since the lottery and you have finally stopped to think about the absence of your mother. Write a journal entry detailing your feelings as Nancy, Tessie Hutchinson’s daughter.

Journal for “The Scarlet Ibis” by James Hurst

Denotation refers to the literal meaning of a word, the "dictionary definition."

  • For example, if you look up the word snake in a dictionary, you will discover that one of its denotative meanings is "any of numerous scaly, legless, sometimes venomous reptiles; having a long, tapering, cylindrical body and found in most tropical and temperate regions."

Connotation, on the other hand, refers to the associations that are connected to a certain word or the emotional suggestions related to that word. The connotative meanings of a word exist together with the denotative meanings.

  • The connotations for the word snake could include evil or danger.

Think about the word handicapped. Explain the denotation and connotations associated with this word:

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Are there other words that are commonly associated with the connotation of the word handicapped? What are they?

What are your stereotypes (generalizations) of people with Intellectual Disabilities (ID)?

Personal Reflection Questions –

“The Scarlet Ibis”

Answer the following questions honestly and thoughtfully. Be sure to write in full sentences and completely answer each question.

  1. How did you feel at the end of the story? Elaborate and explain in detail.
  1. Does Doodle (and/or his brother) remind you of anyone real or in other stories you've read or films you might have seem? Explain why or why not.
  1. Have you had any personal experiences which help you to relate to this story? Describe an example from your life or another person’s.
  1. What is a caul? Why did Aunt Nicey think the caul was important? Explain and support your answer. (Higher level: How does this allude to the theme?)
  1. What is significant about Doodle’s interaction with the scarlet ibis? Find specific quotes (with page #s) from the text to support your answer.
  1. In what way does the narrator’s pride help and also hurt Doodle? Provide textual evidence of both from the text.
  1. The author, James Hurst, grew up in the southern part of the United States. How can we tell that thestory took place in the South? Use at least two quotes from the story to support your answer.
  1. Describe Hurst’s use of symbolismin this story?
  1. Does the story end the way you expect it to? Why does the author choose this ending? What effect does this conclusion have on the reader?
  1. How would you like to have seen the story conclude?Be specific.

Letter to Doodle: Character Development

GOAL: To better understand the meaning of internal conflict & dynamic character

Write a letter from the narrator to Doodle explaining his motivations (character development) for his behavior as a child. This should reveal his development as a dynamic character.

  • Your letter will be in first person, as if he is speaking.
  • Use two direct quotes from the story in your letter. These do not need to be quotes spoken by the character; any line from the story is considered a quotation.
  • The letter MUST SHOW HOW THE NARRATOR STRUGGLED WITH HIS INTERNAL CONFLICT AND CHANGED (DYNAMIC)
  • Use at least 5 specific details from the story
  • Length: double spaced, one page handwritten
  • MLA Format: Times New Roman, 12 point font.
  • Heading: Student name, teacher name, class & date – double spaced on the left.

“The Landlady” by Roald Dahl

Journal

Intuition - a thing that one knows or considers likely from instinctive feeling rather than conscious reasoning.

You're faced with a difficult decision, and suddenly you feel the right answer in your gut.Do you pay attention to that intuition, or are you more prone to listen to your head (logical thinking)?

What are some scenarios in which you should listen to your intuition?

And when should you let your head decide?

Discussion Questions

Note: Refer to the page numbers printed at the top of the story when responding to the following questions.

  1. On page 164 (first page of the story), the author uses the words: brisk, briskly, and briskness in the first full paragraph. Billy states that, "briskness is a common characteristic of all successful businessmen." What does the author mean by this word and what is the significance of being "brisk" in the story?
  1. When Billy arrives in the city of Bath, the first thing he needs to do is find lodgings. Why is he debating between staying at pub instead of a boardinghouse?
  1. Reread the paragraph on page 165, that begins, “Suddenly, in a downstairs window…” and continue rereading through the next few paragraphs. What words and phrases does the author use to describe the Bed and Breakfast? What inference does Billy make about the Bed and Breakfast based on these observations?
  1. On page 165, the author says that Billy turns to go, “and now a queer thing happened to him.” Summarize what happens in this scene. How does the author describe the sign and Billy’s reaction?
  1. Which words (pages 165-166) following the previous question suggest that Billy should be on the alert?
  1. The narrator emphasises the speed at which the Landlady answers the door. What might this foreshadow about the landlady, about Billy, and about how the two might interact later in the story?
  1. Reread the paragraph in the second column on page 166 that begins, “Please come in.” What words or phrases does the author use to describe what happens next and how Billy feels about the situation? Should he have been suspicious at this point in the story? Why or why not? Use evidence from the text in your response.
  1. How does the author’s use of irony when describing the landlady make the reader question her?
  1. On page 167, why does the author include the line, "There were no other hats or coats in the hall. There were no umbrellas, no walking sticks-nothing."?
  1. When Billy is in the living room, what first alerts the reader that something may be wrong?
  1. As Billy is almost remembering the connection between the two boys, what effect did the interruptions from the landlady have on the story?
  1. What can the reader infer, using evidence from the text, about the two boys that are missing? What does this information lead the reader to believe concerning Billy's possible fate?
  1. What other evidence from the story suggests a possible, fatal demise for Billy?

Additional Task: